Big Sur is one of California’s most enchanting destinations, offering a perfect blend of rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and breathtaking ocean views. For couples dreaming of an intimate and adventurous wedding experience, a Big Sur elopement provides the ideal backdrop. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your dream Big Sur elopement, complete with insights into the best locations, packages, and venues.


WHY CHOOSE A BIG SUR ELOPEMENT

Big Sur’s dramatic landscapes and serene beauty make it a sought-after destination for elopements. The stunning views, peaceful ambiance, and secluded spots provide an intimate setting for your special day. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean or beneath the towering redwoods, Big Sur offers unparalleled beauty and romance.


Best Elopement Spots in Big Sur

Big Sur is home to numerous picturesque locations that are perfect for an elopement. Here are some of the best spots to consider:

  1. Garrapata State Park: With its breathtaking coastal views and vibrant summer wildflowers, Garrapata State Park is a stunning location for an elopement. The rugged cliffs and serene beaches provide a perfect backdrop for your vows.
  2. Soberanes Canyon: This hidden gem offers a mix of lush greenery, redwood groves and dramatic canyon views. For more adventurous couples looking to include a moderate hike in your elopement day, hiking to the top of Soberanes Canyon provides one of the best lookouts in Big Sur with sweeping views of the canyons and coastline.
  3. Andrew Molera State Park: Known for its diverse landscapes, Andrew Molera State Park features everything from scenic beaches to rolling hills and verdant meadows. It’s a versatile location for couples seeking variety in their elopement photos.
  4. Ragged Point: Often referred to as the “Gateway to Big Sur,” Ragged Point offers stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean on the southernmost end of Big Sur (closer to LA). It’s a perfect spot for a cliffside ceremony with an epic backdrop. Additionally, the area boasts a variety of scenic beaches and waterfalls nearby, making it an ideal location for capturing diverse and breathtaking wedding photos.
  5. Pfeiffer Beach: Famous for its iconic purple sand and dramatic rock formations, Pfeiffer Beach is a truly unique location for an elopement. The beach’s striking beauty provides a stunning setting for your ceremony and photos.
  6. Point Lobos: This natural reserve offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Big Sur. With its picturesque coves, rugged cliffs, and vibrant summer wildflowers , Point Lobos is a dream location for nature-loving couples.

Traditional Wedding Venues in Big Sur

If you’re considering a more traditional venue for your elopement, Big Sur has several options that combine luxury with Big Sur's rugged natural beauty:

  1. Post Ranch Inn: This upscale resort offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Big Sur coastline. With its luxurious amenities and beautiful surroundings, Post Ranch Inn is a top choice for couples seeking an intimate and luxurious elopement.
  2. Ragged Point Inn: Located at the southern end of Big Sur, Ragged Point Inn provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. Its picturesque cliffs and lush gardens offer a beautiful setting for those who want both the dramatic coastal views Big Sur is famous for along with upscale amenities.
  3. Wind & Sea: This oceanfront property offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a private, intimate setting for your elopement. With its picturesque location and serene ambiance, Wind & Sea is an excellent choice for couples looking for a unique and memorable venue.
  4. Ventana Big Sur: Nestled in the heart of Big Sur, Ventana offers a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. The resort features beautiful gardens, scenic views, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect venue for an intimate ceremony.
  5. Glen Oaks: Glen Oaks combines rustic charm with modern comforts, offering a cozy and intimate setting for your elopement. The venue is surrounded by towering redwoods and offers beautiful outdoor spaces for your ceremony and photos.

Best Times of Year to Elope in Big Sur

When planning your Big Sur elopement, it's important to consider the best times of year to visit. Each season in Big Sur has its unique charm, but here are some key points to help you choose the best time for your special day:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to elope in Big Sur. The weather is mild, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the landscape is lush and green. This season offers a stunning backdrop for your photos, and the temperatures are comfortable for outdoor ceremonies.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Big Sur, with warm temperatures and close to zero chance of rain. Wildflowers continue to bloom in abundance through June and even into July some years. One thing to be aware of about summers in Big Sur, is that they can actually be quite foggy, especially in the mornings and evenings! This can add a striking moody vibe to your day and photos, but if you're looking for sunshine and clear skies, September tends to be the clearest month of the year. Summer is also peak tourist season in Big Sur so certain locations can be crowded. If you choose to elope in the summer, consider a weekday or early morning ceremony to avoid the crowds.
  3. Fall (September to November): Fall is another excellent time for a Big Sur elopement. The weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds have dispersed. September to mid-October tend to have the clearest skies and warmest temperatures of the year. The weather typically starts cooling off around late October or early November and the first rainfall usually occurs around that time as well.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter in Big Sur is characterized by cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain. However, this season also offers a unique and intimate atmosphere, with fewer tourists and a peaceful ambiance. While you do have to contend with cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain, the best sunsets of the year also occur at this time of year. The colorful winter sunsets can add a stunning romantic element to your photos.


Tips for Planning Your Big Sur Elopement

  1. Secure Permits: All public locations in Big Sur require permits for weddings and elopements. Make sure to check the requirements and secure any necessary permits well in advance.
  2. Plan for the Weather: Big Sur’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to be prepared for various conditions. Bring layers to stay comfortable, and be ready to embrace elements like fog or wind, which can commonly occur at any time of the year and add a dramatic touch to your photos. If you’re eloping between mid-October and May, be prepared for the possibility of rain, which can also create a beautifully unique and intimate atmosphere for your ceremony.
  3. Hire Local Vendors: Working with local vendors who know the area can make your elopement planning much smoother. They can provide valuable insights and help you find the best spots for your ceremony and photos.
  4. Embrace the Adventure: Big Sur is all about embracing the beauty of nature and the adventure of exploring new places. Whether you’re hiking to a secluded spot or enjoying a picnic on the beach, savor the experience and make it uniquely yours.


A + A's Dream Elopement in Big Sur

To give you a real-life example of how magical a Big Sur elopement can be, let’s take a look at A + A’s winter elopement in Garrapata State Park and Soberanes Canyon. Their day was filled with love, laughter, and stunning scenery, culminating in a colorful sunset that painted the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. A + A chose Garrapata State Park for their ceremony, where they exchanged vows with the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves as their backdrop.


After the ceremony, the couple ventured to Soberanes Canyon for an intimate photo session. The serene ambiance of the canyon provided a perfect contrast to the rugged coastline, creating a diverse and beautiful gallery of images. As the day drew to a close, A + A were treated to a spectacular December sunset overlooking Garrapata Point. The sky transformed into a dramatic array of colors, providing a breathtaking end to their perfect day.




How I Can Help as Your Elopement Photographer

Planning an elopement involves many details, and having an experienced photographer who knows the area can make all the difference. Here’s how I can help:

  1. Location Scouting: As a local to the area, I will help you find the perfect locations that match your vision, ensuring your elopement takes place in the most beautiful and meaningful spots in Big Sur. I'll recommend a blend of the most iconic locations and off-the-beaten-path "locals secret" spots that you won't find on the map that offer seclusion away from the crowds.
  2. Permits and Logistics: I can assist you in navigating the permit process, ensuring all necessary permissions are secured for your chosen locations.
  3. Timeline Planning: I will work with you to create a timeline that maximizes the best lighting and scenery, ensuring your photos are stunning.
  4. Vendor Recommendations: I can recommend the best local florists, officiants, and other professionals to make your day seamless and memorable.
  5. Capturing Your Story: My goal is to capture the essence of your love story, creating a beautiful visual narrative of your special day that you will cherish forever.


SAY HELLO. LET'S START PLANNING YOUR DREAM BIG SUR ELOPEMENT!